Pownalborough Court House Museum

Pownalborough Court House Museum The Pownalborough Court House (PCH) Museum was built in 1761 by the Kennebec Proprietors and still stands today.

"The Pownalborough Court House still stands on its original site on the banks of the Kennebec River in Dresden. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Court House is a remarkable example of colonial New England architecture. Designed by Boston architect Gersham Flagg and built in 1761 by the Kennebec Proprietors for the newly created Lincoln County, the Pownalborough Court House r

eceived such notable visitors as John Adams, Benedict Arnold, Robert Treat Paine, William Cushing, Reverend Jacob Bailey and two future Massachusetts governors: David Sewall and James Sullivan. Numerous trials were held here, including that of Judge North which was featured in the Pulitzer Prize winning book, The Midwife's Tale by Laurel Thatcher Ulrich, based on the diary of local resident Martha Ballard (1735-1812). The Court House also served as a tavern, a place for church services, a dancing school, and as the Dresden Post Office from 1807-1855. In addition to its vital role in the legal history of Lincoln County and Maine, the Court House was a family home. From 1761 - when Captain Samuel Goodwin, an original Kennebec Proprietor and captain of the guard at Fort Shirley, moved his family from the guardhouse into the Court House - until 1954, his descendants used the building as a house."

-LCHA website

12/17/2025

‘Tis the season for proposals!

If you or someone you love got engaged this week or plan to as the year winds down... congratulations! The Pownalborough Court House has been part of Maine’s history since 1761, and a few lucky couples each year celebrate their weddings here. With our riverfront lawn, beautifully maintained garden, and magical nature trails, it’s a place to hold a wedding that’s uniquely yours at an incredible site that is scenic and flexible.

Limited dates are available for 2026 and 2027 - perfect for couples dreaming of a meaningful celebration surrounded by history or even those who just think the 264 year old building looks cool!

Reach out to inquire! lchamaine1954 at gmail.com!

06/12/2025
Our 2 eaglets at the court house do not look pleased but are tagged and healthy. Thanks to Friends of Merrymeeting Bay f...
06/08/2025

Our 2 eaglets at the court house do not look pleased but are tagged and healthy. Thanks to Friends of Merrymeeting Bay for their efforts.

The lights to honor Paul Revere's ride. Two if by sea.
04/19/2025

The lights to honor Paul Revere's ride. Two if by sea.

Support community history this Giving Tuesday! Gifts of all sizes make a difference!
12/03/2024

Support community history this Giving Tuesday! Gifts of all sizes make a difference!

Great review for Dresden and the Pownalborough Court House.
11/01/2024

Great review for Dresden and the Pownalborough Court House.

This week Asa’s World Tour of Maine is rolling down the river into Dresden. Settled in 1752 by French and German Huguenots, the settlement was originally called, Frankfort. Then it was rename…

Address

23 Courthouse Road
Dresden Mills, ME
04342

Opening Hours

Thursday 10am - 4pm
Saturday 10am - 4pm
Sunday 10am - 4pm

Telephone

(207) 882-6817

Website

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